Siena giving New York Yankee shortstop Derek Jeter honorary degree

Associated PressDerek Jeter, right, rounds the bases before bumping fists with third base coach Rob Thomson after hitting a fourth-inning, three-run home run against the Los Angeles Angels at Yankee Stadium last night.

LOUDONVILLE, N.Y. — New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter will receive an honorary doctorate from Siena during its May 13 commencement.

Siena says it chose to give the degree to Jeter “in recognition of his leadership, accomplishments on the baseball field and dedication to improving the lives of young people through his Turn 2 Foundation.”

The honorary degree will be Jeter’s first. His foundation works to promote healthy lifestyles among children.

In a statement, Jeter says he’s humbled by Siena’s move, adding he “will cherish this degree as highly as any honor I have received or will receive.”

The Yankees play Seattle on May 13, so Jeter is planning to have a video message played at the ceremony. His sister, Sharlee Jeter, president of the Turn 2 Foundation, will accept on his behalf.